As said by our 32nd President, Franklin D. Roosevelt, “In the truest sense, freedom cannot be bestowed; it must be achieved.” Due to the courage and valor of the brave men and women that have helped build this country, we have achieved greatness by recognizing the unalienable rights of not only Americans, but people in every continent across the globe. Our most precious freedoms need not only be preserved domestically, but shared globally.

Freedom is what our country has been founded on, and we celebrate our liberation each and every Independence Day. On this day in 1776, the Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence, proclaiming independence and freedom for the 13 colonies. We were a fledgling nation, but this act set our country on a revolutionary road. Our Founding Fathers realized the unheralded potential that embodied the American spirit, and from this grew a nation that is the most revered and prosperous nation in the world.

Throughout our nation’s history, the United States Armed Forces have protected our most sacred ideals from foreign oppressors. Today, we continue to combat those seeking to corrupt and lay ruin to what we hold most dear. Our democratic form of government has withstood the tests of time as many others have followed suit in empowering the people’s voices above all else. We can never take for granted our privileged birthright as we enjoy the most desired and basic needs for advancement.

Our future holds many challenges that will test the resolve of the American people. However, I have unwavering faith that the experiences of the past will help us overcome today’s trials. As you enjoy the warm weather with friends and family this Fourth of July, please take a moment to pay tribute to those that continue to secure our borders and enable us to celebrate our country’s freedom.

The US is the land of the free and the home of the brave. Happy Fourth of July and God bless America!

After HoursAlerts and NotificationAnnouncementsCelebrationsDeadlinesFairs and ExhibitionsHoosier HistoryInitiativesKids and FamiliesLectures and DiscussionsMedia AdvisoryHearingsOral ArgumentsPerformancesMeetingsSeasonal EventsSeminars/WorkshopsState HolidaysPublic Service Opportunities